Can You Put An Above-Ground Pool In The Ground? (Find Out Now!)

Emily Carr
by Emily Carr

Have you ever dreamed of having a pool in your backyard but don’t want to pay for the expensive costs associated with installing one? Putting an above-ground pool in the ground may be the best solution.

You can put an above-ground pool in the ground, given your yard can accommodate an 8-foot deep hole. Make sure to fill the pool with water before backfilling the soil into the voided space to prevent inward collapsing. To add more safety, install a gate and pavers around the perimeter.

In this article, we’ll talk about whether or not it’s possible to put an above-ground pool in the ground and how to do so. Furthermore, we’ll highlight the costs of an in-ground versus a makeshift “in-ground” pool below!

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Is It Possible to Put an Above-Ground Pool in the Ground?

Setting an above-ground pool in the ground sounds like a smart idea, but is it even possible?

It’s 100% feasible to put an above-ground pool inside your backyard soil. However, it can be a little tricky, so there are certain guidelines we’ll touch on later. While it’s possible, it’s important to note that the pool probably won’t be entirely flush with the ground.

Before you start digging, it’s important to get the necessary permits from your city. Similar to an in-ground pool, you’ll need to confirm whether or not the hole you’re going to create will interfere with piping located deep below the yard’s surface.

Once the permits are in place, you’re ready to get started.

Is It Safe to Put an Above-Ground Pool in the Ground?

It’s possible, but is it safe to put your above-ground pool in the ground?

Most things are only as safe as you make them- that also applies to an above-ground pool. Basically, you want to treat this construct the same way you would an in-ground pool.

To improve the security, you can add a fence or gate around the perimeter to keep small children out. Following the necessary steps to install an above-ground pool into the ground will also make it more stable.

That being said, it will never be as durable as an in-ground pool, which is built specifically for this type of use (hence the price difference).

How to Put an Above-Ground Pool in the Ground

How you do this process makes a difference in how well the end result turns out. The key is making sure you follow each step to a tee.

Here’s how you go about doing this:

  • Dig a large, deep hole.
  • Place the empty pool inside.
  • Fill the pool with water.
  • Backfill the hole with soil.
  • Add pavement or tile.
  • Add a measure of safety.

We’ll talk specifics below.

Step 1: Dig a Large, Deep Hole

You want to dig a hole that is deep enough to enable your pool to be level with the ground when the dirt is all filled in around it. That means digging down at least 8 feet into the soil (depending on the desired depth of your pool).

Once this has been done, line plastic around the perimeter of the hole where you’re going to put the pool. This should be completed prior to installing it. You may also want to add rocks or bricks around its edge in order to keep the pool from moving.

It’s important that this step is done correctly with proper measurements. Keep the removed soil for backfilling later.

Step 2: Place the Empty Pool Inside

Once the hole is ready and you’re satisfied with its level, it’s time to place your pool inside.

Lower it using a crane or other industrial machinery in order to limit damage to the pool itself. Make sure all sides are even and level with the ground.

You have the option of leaving the above-ground pool slightly above the surface of the soil. This varies based on personal preference.

Step 3: Fill the Pool with Water

Completing this step third is of the utmost importance.

If you fill in the surrounding dirt before putting the water inside the pool, you risk collapsing the structure inward. Pour in the water first to eliminate the chance of the pool folding under too much pressure.

Step 4: Backfill the Hole with Soil

Hopefully, you kept the soil you dug out in the first place. This will be used to backfill around the pool and keep it in place.

Carefully pack the void around your pool, making sure to use a tamping tool to fill the soil down as you go. Do not cover the pool’s filter or other equipment with dirt, and avoid dumping any dirt into the pool itself.

Step 5: Add Pavement or Tile

Now is the time to add pavement or tile around the edge of your pool for a finished look. This also makes the area safer, as it becomes less of a slipping hazard.

Consult a local contractor to see what the best material options are for your yard!

Step 6: Add a Measure of Safety

This step is completely optional but highly recommended for anyone with small children.

Adding a fence or gate around the perimeter of the pool (like you would an in-ground pool) will help to keep them from entering when unsupervised. It also assists in preventing accidents from happening.

Cost of an In-Ground Pool vs. Burying an Above-Ground Pool

Digging the hole for an above-ground pool, in addition to the pool itself and other materials of in-ground installation, costs around $5,000. This number can exceed $10,000 if you solicit professional help.

This price tag pales in comparison to what it would cost to put in an actual in-ground pool. In-ground options start at around $35,000 (depending on where you live and the scope of your project) and can exceed $100,000 for state-of-the-art features.

Putting an above-ground pool in the ground is a cost-effective way to achieve the same kind of sleek look!


Related Questions

Can you put an above-ground pool on concrete?

Yes, putting an above-ground pool directly on concrete is probably one of the most stable installations you can do.Just make sure the concrete is completely level and that there aren’t any cracks that could damage the actual pool structure.


Are above-ground pools heated?

This is 100% possible. Above-ground pools can have gas heaters, and electric heat pumps installed, just like in an in-ground model.There are even solar-powered above-ground pool heaters! When you purchase your above-ground pool, be sure it includes the option for a heater.


Do you have to cover your above-ground pool in the winter?

You don’t have to, but it’s a good idea.A pool cover protects your pool from algae growth, bacteria, stains, and negative water balances that can harm the surrounding surfaces. Plus, you won’t be using your pool during the winter months anyway.Overall, it is recommended to use a winter cover to preserve the lifespan of your above-ground pool.

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In Summary

If you’ve been looking to put an above-ground pool in the ground but aren’t sure how it can be done without compromising your budget or safety, we have all of the answers.

If you take the time to follow the above steps carefully, then this is a doable project that won’t break the bank! The final cost will depend on what type of products you use and the scope of the project.

You may want to consult with a local contractor regarding which materials would work best for your yard, so there are no surprises when it comes time to install the pool.

Emily Carr
Emily Carr

Emily is a copywriter with over five years of experience in crafting content for the home renovation and remodeling industry. She loves house projects, whether it be painting a room or tweaking small design elements to transform a space. Her favorite aesthetic is french modern because of its clean lines and airy feeling! When not writing, Emily loves to travel and check out architectural details all over the world.

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